Among the key findings, the report noted that California is the largest tribal gaming state by economic activity, jobs and tax payments. Tribal casinos add US$20bn to the state’s economy, support jobs for nearly 125,000 Californians and generate US$3.4bn in taxes and revenue share payments to all levels of government annually.
The second largest tribal casino interest is Oklahoma, with tribal operations creating jobs for nearly 75,000 Oklahomans, generating US$1.6bn in taxes and revenue share payments and adding US$9.6bn to the state’s economy.
Tribal gaming added US$6.1bn to Florida’s economy, supported nearly 46,000 jobs and generated more than US$1.1bn in state, federal and local taxes and revenue share payments.
“Tribal gaming operators are present in 28 states and create nearly half of all US gaming revenue,” said Sara Slane, senior vice president of public affairs for the AGA. “This report details the widespread economic impact that tribal casinos have in states across the country, providing diverse career opportunities, supporting local businesses and generating tax revenue and revenue share payments for all levels of government.”
Since the passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) in 1988, tribal gaming has grown from a US$121m segment of the US gaming industry, comprising small bingo halls and gaming facilities, to a US$32bn plus segment in 28 states in 2017. That revenue allows tribal casinos across the country to provide diverse career opportunities, support local businesses and fund critical state, local, and tribal government programs.
Source: GMB
